Effects of Daoyin exercise on anxiety and depression
Official title: TCM Daoyin for Anxiety and Depression Symptoms: Psychological Effects and Biological Mechanisms
Run by Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine · NCT06921512 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing whether a traditional exercise called Daoyin can help people with anxiety and depression feel better over 12 weeks.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 20 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Shanghai) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | April 10, 2025 |
| Main results expected | March 30, 2027 |
| Study ends | September 30, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | April 29, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06921512 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 to 65 with mild to moderate anxiety and depression symptoms who have not used psychotropic medications recently.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with diagnosed anxiety or depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, or those currently on psychiatric medications may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This clinical trial investigates the impact of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Daoyin exercise on symptoms of anxiety and depression over a 12-week period, followed by a 12-week observational follow-up. The study will assess changes in anxiety and depression scores using standardized scales, while also exploring biological mechanisms through the analysis of inflammatory markers and gut microbiota. Participants will engage in a structured exercise program and self-record their engagement during the follow-up phase. The goal is to evaluate both psychological and biological outcomes related to mental well-being.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a non-pharmacological treatment option for individuals suffering from anxiety and depression.
How similar studies have gone: While TCM approaches have been explored in other studies, the specific application of Daoyin exercise in this context is relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Primary symptoms of anxiety and depression, with a Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAMA-14) score between 14 and 29 and a Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD-17) score between 7 and 14. * No prior use of psychotropic medication, or at least six months since discontinuation. * Aged 18 to 65 years (male or female). * Clear consciousness and normal cognitive function, with the ability to communicate effectively, read, express thoughts, and engage in daily activities independently. * Willing and able to comply with blood and stool sample collection. * Voluntary participation, with signed informed consent provided before enrollment. Exclusion Criteria: * Diagnosed anxiety disorder or depressive disorder based on ICD-10 criteria. * Bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders (e.g., schizophrenia), or organic mental disorders (e.g., Alzheimer's disease). * History of alcohol or substance use disorder within the past year, current psychiatric medication use, or high suicide risk. * Severe or unstable medical conditions, including immune or endocrine disorders or other serious illnesses. * Physical or psychological limitations preventing participation in the TCM Daoyin intervention. * Pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Where it's running
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Shanghai Qigong Research Institute
Shanghai, China Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Ying Lu, Master — Shanghai Qigong Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Ying Lu, Master
- Email: luyingtcm@163.com
- Phone: 021-64394141
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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Guided online CBT for depression and anxiety tied to financial problems
This trial will test whether eight weeks of therapist-guided online cognitive behavioral therapy can help adults with mild to moderate depression or anxiety linked to economic problems.
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.